שמואל ב, פרק ג׳, פסוק א׳

The clash between the followers of David and the followers of Ish-bosheth did not end as a brief, isolated encounter at the pool of Gibeon. Instead, it evolved into a prolonged and bitter rivalry [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This continuous hostility stretched over a significant period [מצודת דוד], specifically occupying the final five years of Ish-bosheth's reign as king [מלבי״ם].

Throughout these years, a gradual but undeniable shift occurred in the balance of power. David experienced a steady, daily increase in strength and influence [מצודת דוד]. In sharp contrast, the house of Saul steadily declined, becoming increasingly weak and depleted [מצודת דוד]. This deterioration was much like the frail, thin cows described in Pharaoh's dream in the Torah [מצודת ציון].

This political decline took a very practical form. Large numbers of Israelites began to abandon Ish-bosheth's camp, choosing instead to attach themselves to David's growing kingdom [מלבי״ם]. This mass departure was ultimately rooted in a lack of strong leadership. Because Ish-bosheth failed to act as a true and effective ruler, his supporters simply lost the passion and motivation required to continue fighting for his cause [ביאור שטיינזלץ].